Construction work near power lines must be reported to the power company.

Dangerous violations of power line corridors.

According to EVN SPC, the serious electrical accident that occurred on October 26th in Cam Hung commune, Cam Xuyen district (Ha Tinh province), resulting in the deaths of four people while constructing a telecommunications pole, serves as a warning about the dangers of working near power lines without ensuring safety. The accident happened when a group of people in Cam Hung commune were erecting a telecommunications pole and were suddenly struck by an electric current from the 35 kV power line running overhead.

Authorities investigated and determined the initial cause was that the telecommunications pole construction company failed to notify the power company to coordinate safety measures.

This tragic accident once again shows that, despite clear regulations on power grid safety corridors and ensuring safety during construction near power lines, many people still do not strictly adhere to them, leading to unfortunate accidents.

EVN SPC stated that the Corporation regularly conducts awareness campaigns targeting specific groups, such as urban and rural areas, and before the rainy season and floods; strictly inspects power grid corridors, detects and prevents violations; and handles violations, especially in the construction and renovation of houses and buildings, and clearing trees inside and outside the corridors. Notably, there are numerous cases where, despite warnings and guidance on safety measures from the power company before the construction of bridges and roads, violations still occur, leading to power grid failures and tragic electrical accidents.

Regulations for construction near power lines.

To avoid unfortunate electrical accidents, EVN SPC believes that, first and foremost, it is necessary to strictly implement the current regulations of the State regarding coordination between units with construction projects near power lines and the power company.

Repairing and upgrading the power grid infrastructure in Vinh City. Photo: Quang An

According to EVN SPC, compliance with these regulations is extremely important. Specifically, Article 51, Clause 8 of the Electricity Law states: When carrying out work on the ground or underground near or within the protection corridor of overhead power lines that may affect the normal operation of the lines or pose a risk of electrical incidents or accidents, the unit carrying out such work must reach an agreement with the power grid management unit regarding necessary safety measures.

Article 4 of Decree No. 14/2014/ND-CP on detailed regulations for the implementation of the Electricity Law regarding electrical safety also clearly states: Prohibited acts include: climbing power poles, entering substations or protected areas of electrical infrastructure without authorization; using high-voltage power grid infrastructure for purposes other than those agreed upon with the high-voltage power grid infrastructure management unit.

Furthermore, Article 34 of Decree 59/2015/ND-CP on the Management of Construction Investment Projects also states: Construction contractors must prepare safety measures for workers, equipment, construction vehicles, and the construction site before commencing construction. If the safety measures involve multiple parties, they must be agreed upon by all parties.